Experimental and numerical study of coupled dynamic response of a mini tension leg platform

Role of mini tension leg platforms (TLP) in oil exploration and production in marginal deepwater fields is becoming increasingly important. Mini TLP combines the simplicity of a spar and favorable response features of a TLP. In this paper, the results of a detailed experimental and numerical investigation of the coupled dynamic behavior of a mini TLP are reported with special attention to hull-tether coupling. The experimental study has been carried out using a scaled model in wave flume with specially designed tethers whose first two "string" natural frequencies are excited by waves, thus achieving strong hull-tether coupling. The numerical study has been carried out using a nonlinear time domain finite element method specifically addressed to compliant offshore platforms using a combination of potential theory based wave loading and Morison-type wave loading. Extensive comparisons between numerical and experimental results have been made both for platform motions and deflected shapes of the tethers and conclusions drawn. Copyright © 2004 by ASME.